Posted on July 24, 2015 Last week marked the beginning of a new chapter for 26 women in the Coalition’s First Step Job Training Program. After 14 weeks of intensive computer training, professional internships, resume writing, mock interviews and job applications, First Step students came together with close family, friends and Coalition staff to celebrate their accomplishments – and look to the future. Equipped with the skills and the confidence to succeed, these amazing women are ready to take on the working world. The highlight of graduation was the uplifting speech from the evening’s Graduate Speaker, Faith. Faith described her initial reluctance to enroll in First Step – she was anxious at the thought of leaving her two young daughters in childcare all day long for a program she didn’t know much about. But after signing up, Faith was motivated and inspired by the diversity and sisterhood of her classmates and the steadfast support of the First Step staff: “From the onset, the staff were amazing. They don’t look down on you… you can tell from their initial interaction that they really care about your future and really want you to succeed at what you’re doing and go forth in life.” Faith (Right) celebrates with fellow graduates Not only did First Step help Faith find full-time employment – through the program, she was able to discover newfound self-respect. “I started off doing it for my girls because they needed a role model – they needed a better life,” she continued, “but as I went through the program I realized, I was doing it for myself. I wanted more. And I got it.” As each graduate received her certificate, the message to family and friends rang out loud and clear: First Step had changed their lives for the better and there was no stopping them now! “Classes 128 and 129, raise those certificates – we did it!” Classes 128 and 129 celebrate with First Step staff First Step would not be possible without the many individuals and organizations that sponsor, volunteer and provide internships for our students. We are grateful for their continued support. Learn more about the First Step Job Training Program here and hear from First Step graduate Valerie, who overcame illness, a lost job and homelessness to achieve independence:
